Of Avalon, Pa 15202, passed peacefully at home on 6/20/2022 after an extended stay at the Pittsburgh VA facilities.  James was born in Brooklyn, New York on January 7, 1950, and relocated to Pittsburgh in his later years.  He attended St. John's Catholic church.  James served three years in the Air Force as a dental assistant.  He is best remembered by friends, Andy and Courtney Sculli and daughter Dakota, Walter Jarosh, Nancy, Cheryl, Gabe, and the many associates, and patrons of the Phipps Garden Center, in Mellon Park, for his friendly and helpful greetings where he provided security for the facility.  Friends are invited to attend the burial at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies on August 19 at 2:00 o'clock.  Donations and remembrances may be sent to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Attn: Phipps Garden Center Programming, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.